MOLLUSCUM CONTAGIOSUM

These infectious dome-shaped papules are caused by a pox-virus. They
have a central dimple in which often typical whitish cheesy material can
be seen, it looks like a little white ball. Molluscum normally occurs in
small children in areas of warmth, moisture and friction such as the
armpits and the groins, and on the face. Generally they are self-limiting
and will disappear within a year without treatment. If they persist for a
longer time or if they cause complaints they may be treated. When they
occur in adults, particularly when there are multiple and large lesions,
there may be immunosuppression.
Management of molluscum contagiosum
- Prick the centre with a sharpened matchstick and press out contents.
- Curettage with a sharp curette or lance with a pin.
- Use betadine solution or scrub after the above until dry.
- Caustic pencil (silver nitrate pencil) for small molluscum.
- Caustic treatment with 80% phenol or 50-88% trichloro acidic acid.
- Freeze with liquid nitrogen.